A model study for a novel synthetic approach to 2-carboxyinosines

A model study for a novel approach to the synthesis of 2-carboxyinosines has been described. The synthesis of 9-benzyl-2-carboxyhypoxanthine (I), a model for 2-carboxyinosine, was achieved in four steps starting from 1-benzyl-5-nitroimidazole-4-carboxylic acid. Also reported is the synthesis of 9-benzyl-2,2-bis(ethoxycarbonyl)hypoxanthine (II).